Emanuel unveils project to reduce flood risk

Saturday Mayor Rahm Emanuel unveiled the first projects to be funded under his "Green Stormwater Infrastructure Strategy."

April 26, 2014 2:32:26 PM PDT

April 26, 2014 (CHICAGO) --

Chicago will soon have more green space to absorb rain water and reduce the risk of floods.

Saturday Mayor Rahm Emanuel unveiled the first projects to be funded under his "Green Stormwater Infrastructure Strategy."

Five city streets will get permeable pavement as well as special planters and tree pits that allow rain water to slowly infiltrate into the ground.

"Without green space to absorb rainfall, Chicago's sewer system is forced to handle large volumes of storm water, which often lead to flooding events that can damage homes and disrupt lives," Emanuel said. "Incorporating green infrastructure into existing and ongoing capital projects will help to reduce flooding, protect the environment and strengthen our neighborhoods."

The mayor also announced the city has received two new grants from the Environmental Protection Agency that will be used to add green space to part of Leland Road and a parking lot in Lincoln Park.